Program Manager

Company Overview

PROOF Research, located in Northwest Montana, is a pioneering science-based company dedicated to revolutionizing the firearms industry. By combining cutting-edge technology with expert craftsmanship, we produce carbon fiber barrels and complete rifle systems that are lighter, more durable, and more accurate than any other products available.

Overview
The Program Manager is responsible for leading cross-functional programs that deliver complex, manufactured products from concept through production and lifecycle support. This role ensures programs are executed on schedule, within budget, and to technical, quality, and customer requirements. The Program Manager serves as the primary point of contact for internal stakeholders and customers, coordinating engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, quality, and finance to achieve program objectives.

Duties

• Responsible for execution of programs from contract award through closeout.
• Participate in proposal development and transition to execution.
• Lead cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, operations, and test) to meet technical and contractual requirements.
• Oversee job creation and set-up in company's ERP and or PLM system(s).
• Develop and maintain program schedules, budgets, and risk registers.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate technical, schedule, supply chain, and financial risks; implement mitigation plans.
• Serve as the primary customer interface for program execution, reviews, and issue resolution.
• Track cost, schedule, and technical performance and report status to senior leadership.
• Prepare program documentation, reports, and audit material.
• Track action items, deliverables, and contract milestones.
• Support subcontractor coordination and supplier performance tracking.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and cost reduction initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with applicable standards and regulations (e.g., ISO 9001/AS9100, ITAR/EAR, safety, environmental).
• Present to Senior Leadership program status.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations or related field. Equivalent military or other applicable leadership experience will also be considered.
• 2+ years of experience in program/project coordination, engineering, operations, and/or government program support.
• Familiarity with structured project or program management concepts.
• Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to influence without authority and resolve conflict.
• Customer-focused mindset with attention to detail.
• Experience with ISO 9001 preferred.
• U.S. person status (as required by ITAR).
• Prior experience working in either an aerospace or defense setting is preferred.
• Demonstrated firearms familiarity and competency in firearms safety is a plus.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities, as needed/assigned. This individual has the responsibility & authority to carry out tasks assigned by management.

Schedule/Travel

Generally, the schedule is Monday-Friday 8am-5pm; however, certain events may require flexibility. This position requires the flexibility to travel as needed (customer sites, trade shows events, training events, etc.) in accordance with Proof travel policy. A valid driver's license is required.

Work Environment

Primarily works indoors in an office/manufacturing plant setting. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions and explosives. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet in the office setting and moderate in the plant setting. Higher noise levels will be experienced in firearm test firing ranges while performing duties. Firearm safety is a critical aspect of the work environment.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to walk. The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Pay: From $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings